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Cuts in International Aid: Why our work is more important than ever

When David Cameron was prime minister, his government committed to spending 0.7% of national income on international aid1. That was in a time of austerity. Today’s government, in response to Covid, will cut this to 0.5%1. It means a loss of 4 billion pounds spending on overseas aid this year1. This is devastating to projects all over the world, and will compound the problems we have in the world. No other government has decided to do this, only the UK. It means just over 100,000 people (mainly children) will die. Deaths which would have been prevented with the UK aid promised by David Cameron.1.


The devastating effects due to the cuts in international aid mean that the work of small charities, like ours, working at grassroots level, is more important and vital than ever. 


Why we exist

Over 258 million children and youth are not attending school2. Over 59 million are of primary school age, so they may never learn to read and write, and over 200 million are of secondary age3 so they may never acquire basic humanistic, artistic, financial, scientific and technological knowledge, or access the skilled labour market. Without a basic education and knowledge of their human rights, these children are subject to labour abuse, and frequently physical, sexual, psychological and emotional abuse.

 

Many of these children are in developing countries and will remain in poverty without education to help them change their circumstances. Lack of education causes poverty and slow economic and technological development. Education boosts economic growth enabling stability and independence, and allows for better environmental management. This positively effects the global market, the global community, culture and the global environment.


We are working to achieve Sustainable Development Goal 4 - ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all. We believe that this goal underpins all the other sustainable development goals. Our work directly protects and upholds human rights and sustainable life on this planet.

 

We exist to reach this goal. We hope one day that we won’t have to exist anymore.


3 opportunities to create change

We can see three key areas which can be effective in tackling the problem of making equitable education accessible for all.



1. Access to education

 

The problems that children have in accessing education are diverse and vary from place to place. Every country, every district, every school and every child will have their own unique collection of challenges. The solutions found need to be as varied as the problems faced. By working in partnership with Teachers’ Unions and educators in various countries, we have developed projects that aim to resolve specific issues that children are facing in  order to access education.


Our projects are in line with SDG Target 4.5 - Eliminate all Discrimination in Education. Inclusion and equity

and gender equality are the focus of these projects. They also support Target 4.6 - Universal Literacy and Numeracy by enabling children to access education.


Educating women is essential for giving them control over their reproduction1, which affects their earning ability and has a big impact on the world population. There are many reasons why women are not able to access education. We work closely with organisations, education unions, teachers and educators in country to develop tailored solutions that will address the challenges that prevent women and girls accessing education.


Our Positive Periods Program teaches girls, women, men and teachers to make sanitary pads from local materials: it raises awareness of menstrual health, so girls can go to school and stay in school during their periods. Our work has impacted over 100,000 women and girls in Sierra Leone, The Gambia and Cuba so far. In some areas 1 in 3 women have experienced physical or sexual violence. Our Gender Based Violence workshops create discussion, raise awareness and generate action plans so girls can be safe in school.


We help children get to school, by providing bicycles. In response to accessing education during Covid, we provided solar radios. We work on projects that resolve the problem of access to technology and internet so children can be given better learning opportunities. Our projects are tailored to specific challenges, and we have charity gifts to allow people to donate to their favourite cause, CLICK HERE to find them and for more information.



2. Resources for Educators

 

Teachers are the key to achieving all of the SDG 4 targets, and they need to be empowered, motivated, professionally qualified, and supported with resources. We work in partnership with Education Unions in various countries to develop projects that support teachers and educators through training programmes, knowledge exchange, learning and development, building learning resource centres, and collaborating to develop new resources.


These projects are in line with SDG Target 4.c - Increase the Supply of Qualified Teachers in Developing Countries through training, development and resources.  They also support Target 4.6 - Universal Literacy and Numeracy by providing ‘mother tongue’ literacy resources. Target 4.7 - Education for Sustainable Development and Global Citizenship is supported in our Life Long Learning Webinars in which we have explored sustainable lifestyles, human rights, gender equality, promotion of a culture of peace and nonviolence, global citizenship and appreciation of cultural diversity.


We have developed teacher training programs in Nepal, The Gambia, Sierra Leone, Colombia, Haiti and Cambodia and Learning Resource Centres in Haiti, Nepal and The Gambia. We work with UNESCO ASPnet exchanging knowledge, materials and good practice in education. Our Life Long Learning Webinar series is helping to develop educators across the globe. So small charities like us have a huge impact and create a wave of change. Donating directly to us allows us to develop more resources for educators, some of our resources can be found here.



3. Education Dialogue

 

Underpinning all the work we do is listening and promoting discussion and dialogue. This allows communities and educators to find their own solutions to the challenges they face, and gives them the support and connections to people who can help. Sharing stories, through listening and discussion, drawing, reading and writing, making and watching films, enables people to connect, empathise and breakdown barriers.


This underpins Target 4.7 - Education for Sustainable Development and Global Citizenship by offering the evidence for how people miss out on education, and what happens to their opportunities, human rights, gender equality, sustainable development and health. It supports SDG Target 4.1 - Free Primary and Secondary Education through appreciating the life changing importance of education in people’s lives. Target 4.5 - Eliminate all discrimination in Education by highlighting the discrimination faced by many. Promoting dialogue inspires people to support all the targets for SDG4.

 

Our popular ENGAGE magazine provides a forum for people to share ideas on what needs to be done, and reflects on progress so far on the SDG 4 goals. Starting the discussion at an early age is important and we promote ‘Education For All’ discussions in schools and community groups. Story-telling, collecting and sharing stories, to foster inclusion and understanding between people and cultures and promote dialogue is essential to us reaching our goals. As are film screenings and interviews to promote understanding and discussion about the challenges to accessing education.


Let’s create change together


The government have cut overseas aid and consequently people will suffer. However, hope is not lost.  

 

We believe that  lives can be transformed through education.  If you do too then join with us to help make QUALITY EDUCATION FOR ALL become a reality.


Donate Now




1. https://www.theguardian.com/news/audio/2021/may/13/why-is-the-uk-slashing-its-international-aid-budget-podcast

2. According to UIS data for the school year ending in 2018.

3. 59 million children of primary school age, 62 million of lower secondary school age and 138 million of upper secondary age.


Steve Sinnott • May 19, 2021

An update from the Foundation’s first Learning Resource Centre in Palpa, Nepal

By Barbara Bond • February 10, 2025
The Steve Sinnott Learning Resource Centre was originally established by Manisha UK in Palpa, Nepal in 2019, in partnership with the Steve Sinnott Foundation. It was administered by Dan Wichmann and Saran Saru. It included an excellent library, a classroom with an interactive whiteboard and monitors with Raspberry Pi software. Although well used by a local school, evaluating the project in 2021, it was decided that the facilities should be available to a wider usership. An agreement was concluded with Children Nepal in Pokhara for the material effects to be utilised. Children Nepal is an effective and inspiring organisation providing extensive and holistic support to deprived families. The centre offers classes to students who are very keen learners and attend after their usual morning classes in other educational institutions. They attend IT classes facilitated by a Steve Sinnott funded teacher. There are two classes of 20 students each, these classes are offered twice a day, except Saturday. These students need to compete with students from private schools; the government schools they attend have very limited computers and IT classes. The centre offers art classes to younger children, as well as singing, dancing, creative writing and storytelling. In the holidays, classes are offered to years 6, 7 and 8 with excellent attendance. Performances are given, artwork displayed and there are competitions for art and writing. The library is very well used. This is a vital resource as the local neighbourhood has only two small libraries and schools rarely have libraries or enough books. The children enjoy individual and paired reading, talking animatedly about their reading. The library is also available to adults from the community. Manisha UK, The Steve Sinnott Foundation and Children Nepal have enjoyed a very good relationship. Via quarterly reports and unplanned visits from Manisha UK, we have seen the excellent work Children Nepal are undertaking. The staff in Pokhara are totally committed and dedicated providing an invaluable resource to the communities they serve. A recent renewal of financial support from The Steve Sinnott Foundation means the work of the IT teacher can continue and new books can be bought for the library. This funding ends in 2027. Further funding is essential to update the software used from Libre Office to Microsoft Windows. Manisha UK and Children Nepal are incredibly grateful for the support from the Steve Sinnott Foundation, particularly the help provided by Ann Beatty. I will be visiting the centre in December and look forward to seeing the continuing excellent work. BIOGRAPHY A full time secondary school teacher for 31 years, Barbara retired from her final post in an inner city Birmingham school in 2010. She had worked in pastoral roles and as head of English and Director of Literacy. This was an early retirement in order to pursue voluntary work abroad, fortunately she came across the small but highly effective charity Manisha UK. The charity supports 8 government village schools in rural Nepal and Barbara undertakes annual visits.

Empowering communities through partnership in Sierra Leone

By Isata M Kamara • February 7, 2025
In a world where the challenges of gender equality, climate change, and social injustice loom large, partnerships that prioritize sustainable development and social equality are more crucial than ever. The collaboration between The Steve Sinnott Foundation [SSF] and Gender Equality and Development for Social Action [GEDSA] exemplifies how shared vision and collective action can lead to transformative change in communities. Together we are not just addressing immediate issues, we are laying the groundwork for a brighter and more equitable future. At the heart of our partnership is a commitment to shared learning. By pooling our resources, expertise and experiences, SSF and GEDSA have created a dynamic platform for innovation and growth. This collaboration allows us to tackle complex issues such as school related gender based violence, climate change, and challenges holistically faced by people with disabilities. Through workshops, community engagement and research initiatives, we have fostered an environment where knowledge is exchanged freely. This shared learning not only enhances our understanding of issues at hand but also empowers local communities to take ownership of the solutions. By equipping individuals with the tools and knowledge they need, we are nurturing a generation of leaders who are committed to driving social change. One of the flagship projects born from our partnership is positive periods, an initiative aimed at addressing menstrual health and hygiene management in schools. In many communities menstruation remains a taboo subject leading to stigma and misinformation. This project seeks to break the silence surrounding menstruation, providing education and resources to students, teachers and parents alike. By promoting open conversations about menstrual health, we are not only improving the wellbeing of young girls but also fostering an environment where gender equality thrives. The positive periods initiative has already seen remarkable success, with increased school attendance among girls and a significant reduction in the stigma associated with menstruation in our operational schools and communities. This project is a testament to the power of education and awareness in transforming societal norms. Climate change is one of the most pressing challenges of our time, disproportionately affecting marginalised communities. Our partnership recognises that addressing climate change requires a multifaceted approach that includes addressing issues such as gender equality and social justice. Through joint initiatives, we are working to empower communities to adapt to climate impacts while promoting sustainable practices, we are ensuring that women and marginalised groups have a voice in decision making processes. Our projects focus on building resilience, promoting sustainable agriculture, and advocating for policies that prioritise the needs of vulnerable populations. This is not only combating climate change but also fostering a sense of community ownership and responsibility. School related gender- based violence [SRGBV] is a pervasive issue that hinders educational attainment and perpetuates a cycle of inequality. Our partnership has launched targeted interventions to address SRGBV, creating safe and inclusive learning environments for all students. Through training programs for educators, awareness campaigns, and support services for survivors, we are working to eradicate violence in schools. By engaging students, parents and community leaders, we are fostering a culture of respect and equality. Our efforts have led to increased reporting of incidents, improved support systems for survivors, and a greater understanding of the importance of gender equality in education. Together, we are creating safe spaces where children can thrive. We support children with disabilities. Our commitment to inclusivity extends to children with disabilities who often face significant barriers to education and social participation. Through our collaborative projects, we are advocating for the right of more inclusive educational environments. We provide training for teachers, resources for families and awareness campaigns; we are breaking down stigma surrounding disabilities. The impact of our work is profound. Children with disabilities are gaining access to quality education, and their families are receiving the support they need to advocate for their rights. As we reflect on the successes of our partnership, we are filled with hope for the future. The work we are doing together is not just about addressing immediate challenges; it is about building resilient communities that can thrive in the face of adversity, as this will contribute to sustainable development. In conclusion, the partnership between The Steve Sinnott Foundation and Gender Equality and Development for Social Action is a powerful example of how collaboration can drive meaningful change, shared learning and collective action. We are addressing some of the most pressing issues facing our communities today. Together we are not just envisioning a better future; we are actively creating it. Join us in this journey towards empowerment, equality and sustainability for all.

Highlights from our 15 Years celebration!

By Steve Sinnott • February 5, 2025
This event, hosted by Amanda Martin MP, is to celebrate 15 Years of The Steve Sinnott Foundation, supporting access to Education for All. The Steve Sinnott Foundation works with teachers and educators to deliver projects that progress the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 4 - to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education while promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all. We are proud to have worked towards making this goal a reality and continue to do so in honouring Steve Sinnott’s legacy. Here are some highlights from the speakers on the day! "On behalf of Education International we wish to bring solidarity, greetings, appreciation and congratulations to the Steve Sinnott Foundation as it approaches this important milestone. I personally remember Steve from our time connecting US and English teachers around fundamental rights, specifically the Magna Carta and the Civil Rights movement. He was and remains an inspiration and beacon in the global teacher union movement. And as we look around us at this moment in time we know he was right, "there are those who are hopeful supporters and activists for justice, human rights and equality; and there is the rest." Education International is proud to be a partner with the Steve Sinnott Foundation and thanks you all for the work you do towards achieving our collective aims. Congratulations to Ann and the team. And lastly, the hugest of hugs to Mary who continues to inspire us all by directing all the energy and promise of Steve's legacy in such important ways for the world's students and teachers. Thank you" - DAVID EDWARDS, PH.D GENERAL SECRETARY OF EDUCATION INTERNATIONAL "Today is a combination of a celebration & a thank you to all that have been involved. A small but very successful Foundation, something tangible, something beneficial something long lived. A real commitment to education recognising it as a human right. We will continue to support towards SDG4 emphasising on Girls and Women globally" - JERRY GLAZIER, CHAIR OF TRUSTEES FOR THE STEVE SINNOTT FOUNDATION A Foundation close to my heart, making a real sustainable difference through their projects. I am very happy to be working together with the Foundation towards the achievement of the SDGs. As Steve said "Working together - winning together. - AMANDA MARTIN MP FOR PORTSMOUTH NORTH "I think the creative projects The Foundation has enables young people and older to imagine an alternative future and how important it is. We have to keep hope, we have to remember our shared humanity." - PROFESSOR AUDREY OLSTER - PATRON "We absolutely congratulate you for 15 years of operation, born out of the sadness of Steve's death. The Foundation has accomplished great things in pursuing a goal close to Steve's heart - the achievement of every child's right to a quality education wherever they live in the world." - DANIEL KEBEDE - GENERAL SECRETARY (NEU) "Through our 2021 partnership with The Steve Sinnott Foundation, the Cima Community School now has a Learning Resource Centre with a library and a computer lab. The lab does not benefit our students alone as it is accessible to other students throughout Haiti. These students can connect at weekends and link together to learn English - all because of you! We have also been able to distribute the Positive Periods project to reach more than 15,000 girls and women." - GABRIELLE AUREL - HAITI "We have built a great partnership with the Steve Sinnott Foundation and the projects have made a real difference in The Gambia for both students and educators. There is still much work to do." - MARIE ANTONETTE - THE GAMBIA "Thank you to everyone who has supported us over the past 15 years and come together to celebrate this year. Please remember to tell 3 people about our work!" - ANN BEATTY - CEO
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